The United Arab Emirates, or UAE, is a popular tourist destination known for its opulence, modern architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Over the years, the country has invested heavily in its tourism industry and has become one of the top tourist destinations in the world. In this article, we will explore the rank of UAE in tourism and what makes it such a popular destination.
Rank of UAE in Tourism
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), UAE was ranked 8th globally in terms of international tourist arrivals in 2018. The country welcomed over 16 million tourists that year, up from 15.8 million in 2017.
Factors Contributing to UAE’s Popularity
There are several factors that contribute to UAE’s popularity among tourists:
- Modern Infrastructure: The country boasts modern infrastructure with state-of-the-art airports, hotels, and transportation systems that make it easy for tourists to navigate.
- Shopping: UAE is a shopper’s paradise with numerous malls and souks offering everything from luxury brands to traditional handicrafts.
- Cultural Attractions: Despite its modernity, UAE has managed to preserve its cultural heritage through various museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks.
- Festivals and Events: The country hosts several festivals and events throughout the year that attract tourists from all over the world. These include the Dubai Shopping Festival, Abu Dhabi International Film Festival, and Dubai Food Festival among others.
- Fine Dining: UAE is home to some of the finest restaurants in the world serving international cuisine as well as local delicacies.
Top Tourist Destinations in UAE
UAE has several popular tourist destinations that offer a glimpse into its rich culture and modernity. Some of the top tourist destinations include:
- Dubai: The city of Dubai is known for its towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife. It is home to several iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Mall.
- Abu Dhabi: The capital city of UAE is known for its opulent hotels, cultural attractions, and stunning architecture.
It is home to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace Hotel, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi among others.
- Fujairah: Located on the east coast of UAE, Fujairah is known for its beautiful beaches and historical landmarks such as the Fujairah Fort and Al Badiyah Mosque.
- Ras Al Khaimah: This northern emirate is known for its natural beauty with stunning mountains and beaches. It also offers several adventure activities such as zip-lining, hiking, and kayaking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, UAE’s rank in tourism continues to rise due to its modern infrastructure, cultural attractions, fine dining options, festivals and events, as well as its numerous popular tourist destinations. With ongoing investments in the tourism industry and new attractions being developed constantly, UAE shows no sign of slowing down in terms of attracting tourists from all over the world.